Check out our hudson bay blanket selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our blankets & throws shops. Over the years of fur trading, the design of point blankets grew to accommodate the preferences of various Indigenous nations. But how good are Hudson Bay blankets, really? Once it arrives at the mill, the wool is dyed and woven into cloth using a centuries-old method known as pointing.. However, by taking into account all of these factors, it is possible to identify a Hudson Bay blanket with relative ease. Therefore, if you are looking for a genuine relic from the history of the United States, Hudson Bay blankets might be the perfect thing for you. Northwest: History and Symbolism of a Unique North American Tradition, Columbia: The Magazine of Northwest History If you are sensitive to wool, this might make a problem for your chin on cold nights. Today, the design from the blanket is used on a variety of clothing, accessories and household items sold by the HBC. These blankets are still manufactured today, despite the fact that the manufacturing process has unquestionably evolved over the course of the years. Theyre also highly collectible. When I asked the CEO of Amtrak in 2021 about why the company's train tunnel beneath the Hudson River would cost $11 billionmany times more than similar projects in peer countrieshe . 10 Reasons Why, Why Is Stanley Furniture So Expensive? British Columbia, Macleans (2017). Due to the fact that they are warm, long-lasting, and adaptable, they are an excellent option for a wide variety of different applications. This short video provides more Religion and Spirituality of Indigenous Peoples. Services Canada Learn more about the HBC Point They are available in a wide variety of designs, so you should be able to find one that is aesthetically pleasing to you. These blankets are ideal for use as bedding or clothing during the winter months because they are so thick and warm. Dennis & Joan "A Hudson's Bay point blanket is a type of wool blanket traded by the Hudson's Bay Company in western British North America and the United States during the 18th century and 19th century. These blankets have been made in Canada for centuries, and they have a rich heritage that is deeply intertwined with the countrys identity. So if youre looking for a classic blanket that will keep you warm and stylish, look no further than Hudsons Bay. Researcher and consultant Harold Tichenor provides The wool used in the blankets is sourced from a rare breed of sheep that only lives in the remote regions near the Hudson Bay, making the supply limited. With a little patience, youll be able to snag one of these cozy classics at a fraction of the price. Occasionally, Coast Salish women would sew in folds and add borders to adjust the size and form of the point blankets for ease of use. But what makes these blankets so special? The iconic Hudson's Bay point blanket has a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. You should always lay it flat to dry, out of direct sunlight. Finally, Hudson Bay blankets are also cherished for their history. So, there you have it: three reasons why Hudson Bay Blankets are so expensive. But what are they actually worth? Older blankets are usually worth more than newer ones. 3. A real Hudson Bay blanket will also be made from 100% wool. 10 Most Expensive Fabrics in the World why are hudson bay blankets so expensive. Hudson Bay blankets are extremely durable, and will last for many years with proper care. These fabrics are not only expensive due to the materials and labor involved in their production, but also because of the rarity and exclusivity of the final product. Hudson Bay blankets, or points, have a complicated history with Indigenous people in Canada. The high price is due to their durability. Hudson Bay Point Blankets were heavy wool blankets made in the 1700's and 1800's to be traded amongst fur trappers in Canada and the native Indian tribes that lived there. Blankets played an important role in many Indigenous communities as all-purpose clothes and household items, as well as status symbols. The answer is yes! Each line serves a distinct function, and when taken as a whole, they produce a pattern that conveys information about its subject. Before the point blankets arrived in North America, Indigenous blankets were used in such ceremonies. The thick wool is durable and incredibly warm, and the colorful stripes add flair. The trick is in the drying: you must gently press or blot the water out by wrapping it in towels NEVER WRING THE BLANKET. The Bay: This is probably the most obvious choice, and for good reason. For many people, owning a Hudson Bay blanket is a way of connecting with their roots and paying tribute to Canadas rich history. These blankets are renowned for their softness and durability. The indigenous people of the Hudson Bay region gave each line that is found on a Hudson Bay blanket a particular significance when they were first making these blankets. Following the selection of the color and the pattern, the next step is to choose the material that will be used. During the 1800s, Hudson Bay blankets are believed to have spread smallpox among First Nations. The condition of your blanket also matters when determining its value; if there are any tears or holes in it then it wont fetch as much money as one that is still intact. Your email address will not be published. The blankets are also water-resistant and can be used in all weather conditions. Unlike wool blankets, these blankets are made with a synthetic material thats resistant to moisture and mildew. In central and eastern Canada, many Mtis and French settlers and traders wore their Hudsons Bay Point Blankets as outerwear robes, and later turned them into capotes handmade wrap-style coats. The marketing cost of the Hudson Bay Blanket is high because the company spends a lot of money on advertising and promotion. By the 1990s, that number was 1 death for every 1.3 million passengers. A full point measured 4 - 5.5 in. 110.00 sounds like a fair (not great) price if it is in decent condition. The story told by the lines on a Hudson Bay blanket is unique to each individual blanket and can vary depending on where the blanket was made. When buying a Hudson Bay Blanket at Costco, it is important to make sure that you check the return policy so that you can be sure that you will be able to return it if it is not what you wanted. Pendleton blankets have become popular over the years because of their warmth and comfort. If the blanket can be traced back to a particular time or place, it will be more valuable than one with no history. Wool or cotton is typically used in the production of Hudson Bay blankets. Fill a basin, large enough to submerge the blanket, with water. The company is also responsible for introducing the now-famous Hudson Bay blanket to the world. Today, the point blanket is still produced by the Hudsons Bay Company, and it remains a popular choice for both function and style. They are dry clean only, so keep that in mind. The blankets were typically traded to First Nations in exchange for beaver pelts as an important part of the North American fur trade.The blankets continue to be sold by Canada's Hudson's Bay department stores and have . A Hudson Bay blanket is a type of blanket that was originally made in England and then brought over to Canada. Required fields are marked *. The wool used is of a very high quality, and it is often sourced from New Zealand. Their origins date back to the 1670s. Zelda Robb is someone you will always enjoy spending time with. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'mostexpensivehub_com-medrectangle-1','ezslot_24',179,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-mostexpensivehub_com-medrectangle-1-0');report this adCopyright 2023 MostExpensiveHub.com, Why Is Shutterfly Shipping So Expensive? If youre looking for a cozy blanket that will make a statement, Hudson Bay is the way to go. As a result, Hudson Bay blankets are some of the most expensive on the market. I used my non-toxic detergent mixture to wash and rinse the blanket in " COLD " water and GENTLE CYCLE. One of his recommendations included regular stock and trade of pointed blankets. Each blanket is woven by hand, using a centuries-old technique. This is due to its quality and durability, which make it worth the investment. These blankets are handmade, using a centuries-old technique. Due to the fact that they are so thick and warm, these blankets are perfect for making use of during the winter months either as bedding or as clothing. She loves learning new things and appreciates the little things in life. Hudsons That would make it a very, very expensive blanket - well travelled though. Because they can be washed and dried in a machine, taking care of them is very simple. Sylvia Olsen, Working Currently, these blankets are still made and available in a wide array of colors and quality. Blanket from this educational YouTube video. Quality of the Material The high quality of the material used to make Hudson Bay blankets makes them expensive. All Hudson Bay blankets are hand-loomed in England with the finest wool. For centuries, theyve been synonymous with quality, durability, and comfort. For the white Europeans, the Hudson's Bay point blankets represented the fur trade and pioneering settlements of the vast Canadian wilderness. The thick wool fabric is incredibly warm, and the colorful stripes add a touch of style. Just be sure to read the reviews before purchasing anything, as not all sellers on Amazon are created equal! they are excellent blankets in cold climates, as are Pendleton, and a couple other brands. If youre looking for a top-of-the-line blanket that will last a lifetime (and then some), this is definitely the way to go. So, if youre looking for a top-of-the-line blanket that will last for years to come, a Hudson Bay blanket is worth the investment. Now, Hudson's Bay Co. is redirecting the profits from the sale of those blankets toward Indigenous-led initiatives. The Hudson Bay point blanket has been an iconic fixture of Canadian homes for centuries. It is the flagship brand of the Hudson's Bay Company (HBC), the oldest and longest-surviving company in North America as well as one of the oldest continuously operating companies in the world. In 1922, the HBC introduced its first commercial blanket coats, which had the doubled-breasted lapels of the Mackinaw and the longer length and hood of the capote. The wool used to make the blankets is sourced from New Zealand, and it undergoes a rigorous quality control process before it is shipped to England. In 1811, a new style of coat was created using the point blanket: the Mackinaw, a shorter coat with a double-breasted style. While historians arent certain of this, they have heard oral history references to similar practices. While the company has changed hands several times over the years, it is still in operation today and continues to sell its well-known blankets. These blankets are marketed as luxury items, and the company spends a great deal of money on advertising and promotion. Secondly, they are hand-woven which adds to the cost. Secondly, they are hand-woven which adds to the cost. 1. This wool is then spun into a thick yarn that is very durable. There are lots of small businesses that sell Hudson Bay Blankets, so youre sure to find one that fits your style perfectly. Shrumm, Regan. eco-wise wool plaid/stripe blanket , red jasper Pricing Regular Price Range $169.00 - $289.00 Sale Price Range $117.99 - $289.00 More Colors View additional ECO-WISE WOOL SOLID BLANKET colors The durability of these blankets makes them a wise investment, and explains why they are so expensive. Some scholars, such as historian Robert Boyd and artist and anthropologist Marianne Nicolson, believe that colonial authorities knew that smallpox would spread into Western Canada, and that it would help colonial authorities claim Indigenous lands without treaties or compensation. They are crafted from wool that has been carefully selected for its quality and softness. If youre lucky enough to own a vintage Hudson Bay blanket, you can be sure that it will be a cherished family heirloom for generations to come. Signing up enhances your TCE experience with the ability to save items to your personal reading list, and access the interactive map. Many people have old Hudson Bay blankets that have been passed down through the generations. While Hackett has yet to find proof of this, he has heard oral histories that reference similar practices. This type of weave is extremely strong and resistant to wear and tear. Each blanket line is named for an Aboriginal tribe and has a particular meaning. In the 1970s, there was 1 death for every 350,000 passengers who took a commercial flight anywhere in the world. If you want a HB blanket, you probably either have to buy second hand or buy direct from HBC - which means importing from Canada. These blankets quickly became popular among Native Americans and settlers alike, and theyve been revered ever since. Hudson Bay blankets were originally made by a contract manufacturer, but todays blankets are made in a factory owned by the company. Chief factor for the HBCs Columbia District, John McLoughlin, informed the company in 1845 to make blankets resembling the more favourably-designed American point blankets: The American Blanket though generally inferior to ours, meets a readier sale with Indians in consequence of its gaudy color and we beg that those we have ordered may be made in respect of color and texture fully equal to the samples. Therefore, when the Coast Salish preferred a purer white colour, the HBC complied. There are a few reasons that Hudson Bay blankets are more expensive than other types of blankets. It should be thick and sturdy not thin or flimsy. This marketing cost is passed on to the consumer, making Hudson Bay blankets more expensive than other brands. These iconic woolen blankets have been keeping people warm for centuries, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. Which is the Best Climber of All the Big Cats? Lastly, the company has a long history dating back to the 1600s, which gives them a lot of brand recognition and prestige. 10 Most Expensive Restaurants in Chicago 2023, Why Is Washington DC So Expensive in 2023. Are Hudson Bay Blankets Still Made? about the point blanket. valuable information about the history of the point blanket. Voyageur blankets were made for French Canadian fur traders and are the least common type of Hudson Bay blanket. 2023 myheartliveshere | All rights Reserved, Premium Wool Blanket: Hudson's Bay Point Blanket. However, other colors may also be used. Marie, Ontario, too cold, and commissioned settler and Mtis women to create 40 coats for his men out of 3.5 point blankets. Hudson Bay blankets are expensive due to their exquisite quality and craftsmanship. But they had a darker history, too. Whether you drape it over your sofa or use it as an extra layer on your bed, a Hudson Bay blanket is sure to add personality to your space. Pendleton blankets, on the other hand, are known for their intricate patterns and striking designs. You wont be let down in any way! Its tough to put an exact value on Hudson Bay blankets because there are so many factors that can affect price. But dont let that stop you from buying one these blankets are worth every penny! The company ruled over vast tracts of wilderness in North America, and the point blanket was an essential part of their trade. For centuries, the Hudsons Bay blanket has been a fixture in Canadian homes. These blankets were originally produced by the Hudsons Bay Company in the early 1800s, and they quickly became a staple of life in the American West. Your blankets value will be determined by factors such as its age, condition, and how uncommon it is. All of these features add to the cost of Hudson Bay blankets, but they also make them some of the most high-quality blankets available on the market. The blankets were usually large, insulating, and thick. The labor cost in producing a Hudson Bay Blanket is high because of the amount of time and skill that goes into it. Note: The Secret Life of Canada is hosted and written by Falen Johnson and Leah Simone Bowen and is a CBC original podcast independent of The Canadian Encyclopedia. How Long to Cook Green Bean Casserole in Microwave. For nearly three centuries, the company played a major role in the fur trade, helping to shape the history of Canada. Content Summary. In addition to this, they have a very robust distribution network, which enables them to charge high prices for the products that they sell to retailers. And while they may not be as popular as they once were, theres still a demand for Hudson Bay blankets among collectors and enthusiasts. During the 1700s and 1800s, the blankets were believed to have spread smallpox among the First Nations. They are crafted from wool that has been carefully selected for its quality and softness. Although they are not typically discounted throughout the year, Hudsons Bay does offer sales on these blankets from time to time. Hudson's Bay Point Blankets were traditionally made in plain red, white, green or blue background, with a single bar (called "heading") of indigo on either end. The high cost of labor is another reason why Hudson Bay blankets are so expensive. Hudsons Bay Company (HBC) is a Canadian retail company that sells a wide range of products, including blankets. This iconic piece of Canadiana is known for its thick, 100% wool woolen fabric and classic design. about the HBCs history of the point blanket, an FAQ page and personal stories Hudson Bay Blankets are among the most iconic and recognizable blankets in the world. Wool blankets can be washed in a washing machine, although manufacturers recommend hand washing them. In addition, there is still a demand for Hudson Bay blankets among collectors and enthusiasts, despite the fact that their popularity may not be as high as it was in the past. 1. So if youre looking for an authentic piece of American history, Hudson Bay blankets may be just what you need. Etsy: If youre looking for something a little more unique, Etsy is a great place to check out. Hudson Bay blankets are very expensive, and theyre also fragile. This successful trade mission led to the creation of The Governor and Company of Adventurers of England, trading into Hudson's Bay on May 2, 1670. Exploring the most expensive and luxuary in the world. Theyll continue to provide warmth and comfort for many years to come. Today, Hudson Bay blankets are still made according to the same traditional specifications and they remain just as sought-after as ever. A Blanket so important---it even has a book written about it ! Hudson Bay blankets have long been associated with luxury and status. Spending the winter there and trading furs with the Indigenous, the first cargo of fur left for England on Oct. 9, 1669. However, they are worth every penny. To show their wealth during potlatches, participants cut blankets into many small pieces so that everyone at the potlatch would receive a gift. Additionally, the long history of Hudson Bay blankets makes them highly sought-after by collectors. Compared to wool blankets, Hudson Bay blankets tend to be warmer. One popular design is the Glacier Stripe line, which was introduced in 1916. The first time any piece of cloth or bedding was called a "blanket" was in 1340, when Thomas Blanquette, a Flemish weaver living in England, developed a heavily napped woollen weave. Hudson Bay Blankets are some of the most expensive blankets in the world. 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Their softness and durability and household items, as are pendleton, and how uncommon is...
